The sale of Eden Hazard brought about the end of an era at Stamford Bridge. The Belgian had been Chelsea’s talisman for many years. But when he joined Real Madrid for €100m last summer, the Blues needed to find a replacement.
Six months prior to Hazard’s departure, the Blues secured the services of Christian Pulisic. The young American was loaned back to parent club Borussia Dortmund for the remainder of the 2018/19 campaign before permanently settling in England at the end of last season.
Despite costing Chelsea in excess on €60m and arriving with plenty promise, Pulisic wasn’t expected to instantly fill Hazard’s boots. It was assumed that the 21-year-old would be gradually integrated into the first team and develop into a key player for the Blues in the coming years.
However, Pulisic’s recent performances have caused a buzz of excitement, and a series of game-changing contributions suggest that he could well be ready to fill the void left by the departed Hazard.
The USMNT star has featured in every game for Frank Lampard’s side since the restart, netting three goals in six appearances. But it’s not just his goals that have attracted a lot of attention. Pulisic’s all-round impact on games has been immense.
So, how does Pulisic’s debut season in England compare to Hazard’s first season with Chelsea? Let’s take a look at the stats.
Hazard made 34 Premier League appearances in 2013/14, racking up nine goals and 14 assists. That’s a goal every 3.8 games and an assist every 2.7 games.
By contrast, Pulisic has only featured in 22 league games this season, scoring eight goals and registering two assists. The American’s goal-per-game ratio (2.7) is far superior to that of Hazard’s, although Pulisic has clearly contributed far fewer assists.
Hazard played in seven Europa League games during his debut season for Chelsea, notching up one goal and two assists in Europe’s secondary club competition.
Interestingly, Pulisic has a record of one goal and two assists in the Champions League term, and the Blues still have a Round of 16 second leg to play against Bayern Munich.
Pulisic may have the same European stats as Hazard. But it is important to remember that he has achieved those numbers in fewer games and in a more challenging competition.
Time will tell whether or not Pulisic can emulate Hazard’s feats at Chelsea. The early signs are certainly positive, and if he can enjoy half the success that his predecessor had, Pulisic is destined for a long and prosperous career at Stamford Bridge.